Strutting is a construction technique used to provide lateral support to vertical elements such as walls, excavations, trenches, or formwork. It involves the installation of temporary or permanent bracing systems to prevent lateral movement or collapse.

Purpose

The primary purpose of strutting is to prevent the displacement or collapse of vertical structures under lateral loads, such as soil pressure, hydraulic forces, or wind. Struts transfer lateral forces to stable foundations or bracing systems, ensuring the stability of the supported structure.

Types of Strutting

Raking Struts

Raking struts are inclined members installed between a vertical wall or formwork and a stable anchor point, such as a ground anchor. They provide diagonal support to resist lateral pressures.

Horizontal Struts

Horizontal struts are installed parallel to the supported wall or excavation, transferring lateral forces to adjacent structural elements.

Flying Struts

Flying struts are horizontal members cantilevered from the top of a retaining wall or formwork to provide lateral support, especially in cases where ground-level installation is not feasible.

Materials and Construction

Strutting materials vary depending on the application and the magnitude of lateral forces. Common materials include timber, steel, reinforced concrete, or engineered composites.

Struts may be prefabricated or constructed on-site according to design specifications, considering factors such as load capacity, deflection limits, and durability requirements.

Installation methods include embedding struts into concrete footings, attaching them to structural members with fasteners, or anchoring them to stable ground using ground anchors.

Applications

Excavation Support

Strutting is essential in excavation support systems to prevent soil collapse and protect adjacent structures or utilities. It is commonly used in the construction of basements, underground parking garages, and utility trenches.

Formwork Support

Strutting provides lateral support to temporary formwork during concrete placement.

Retaining Walls

Strutting is used to support retaining walls, especially in scenarios where excessive loads or lateral earth pressures could compromise wall stability.

Trench Shoring

In trenching operations, strutting is employed to prevent trench walls from collapsing.